A review by epaige37
Beartown by Fredrik Backman

challenging emotional reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

Trigger warning: SA 

I didn’t expect to enjoy a book all about hockey and the boys who play, but Backman writes in such an interesting way that I did. I liked how he showed characters’ inner thoughts and their flaws. I was angry and frustrated while reading this book not appreciate the conversation surrounding sexual assault within it. This is a huge plot point and theme of this book so take care when considering to read! While tough to hear, this book did a good job of articulating how survivors of sexual assault are often dismissed and villainized. I loved the character development especially of some of the adults, parent-child relationships, and Benji and Amat. This is definitely a character and relationship focused book!! The ending scenes of this book left much ambiguity and I’m left wanting more answers. Would love to discuss if you have read this about what you think happened in a few places! I will definitely be pursuing more Backman. 
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